Ultimate Finance has appointed Neil Lukins as regional director, based in its Manchester office.

Lukins has 14 years’ experience in banking and commercial finance and will join Ultimate Finance from HSBC where he served as regional business development manager in global trade and receivables.

In his career, Lukins has worked in invoice discounting and factoring, and worked with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) “from start up to £6.5m (€7.5m) turnover.”

Lukins said: “Having worked in the banking sector for many years, I was attracted to Ultimate Finance because of the flexibility it can offer SMEs and the speed with which it is able to make decisions.

“A key driver for me is the fact that it has a strong appetite to work with clients and tailor bespoke working capital solutions to help them to grow their businesses.”

Richard Walman, group sales director, hopes Lukin’s networks with introducers and experience with SMEs will benefit Ultimate Finance.

Waldman said: “During his time with HSBC, Neil built up an excellent reputation and trust among SMEs, as well as being well respected by introducers. He will therefore be an excellent addition to the team as we grow our presence in the North West from or new Manchester office.”